Citizens broadband radio service network interference management using dual subscriber identification module devices

ABSTRACT

Methods and systems for citizens broadband radio service (CBRS) interference management using dual subscriber identification module (SIM) devices are described. The method includes assigning a physical cell identity (PCI) to each CBRS device (CBSD) granted unlicensed spectrum by a spectrum access system (SAS). Each spectrum granted CBSD may exchange PCIs with neighbor spectrum granted CBSDs to resolve PCIs and maintains a PCI table. A dual SIM device may be connected to a CBSD via a first SIM. Each spectrum granted CBSD having a connected dual SIM device reports a number of PCIs detected by the dual SIM device(s). A SAS designated dual SIM device may use a second SIM to measure power values of PCIs detected by the designated dual SIM device which are absent from a provided PCI table. The measured power values may be used by the SAS to make cluster interference decisions.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to wireless communications. More specifically,this disclosure relates to managing interference in Citizens BroadbandRadio Service systems.

BACKGROUND

Wireless telecommunications or radio access technologies (RATs)generally use licensed radio frequency spectrum for communicationsbetween mobile devices and wireless telecommunications networks. Forexample, licensed spectrum is used for third generation (3G) and fourthgeneration (4G) wireless communications. Wireless telecommunicationstechnologies may also use unlicensed spectrum.

Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum is a type of unlicensedspectrum which is shared between multiple entities including governmentusers (such as the military), licensed users, and non-licensed users.CBRS is a multi-tiered wireless band between 3.550 MHz and 3.700 MHz. Inparticular, CBRS is a three-tiered access framework including incumbentusers (i.e., federal, military, and the like), priority access users(winning auction bidders), and general authorized access users, wherethe general users are permitted to use any portion of the CBRS spectrumnot assigned to a higher tier user and may also operateopportunistically on unused priority access spectrum. Availability ofCBRS spectrum dynamically changes depending on use by higher priorityentities. Higher tier users are protected from lower tier users using acentralized spectrum access system (SAS), which may be a federal orcommercial entity. The SAS authorizes or grants spectrum to accesspoints known as CBRS Devices (CBSDs) and performs interferencemanagement to protect higher tier users. This protection may include,for example, dropping CBSDs which are general authorized access users.

As inferred, CBRS is an interference limited network which means thatthe performance of the network and the data sent to CBRS subscribers islimited by the amount of interference the CBRS users or subscribersexperience in the frequency band of operation. Currently, the SASperforms interference management by using propagation and pathlessmodels and analysis to determine that interference levels at a locationare below an interference threshold. However, this does not representthe real interference experienced in the CBRS spectrum by the network.As a result, CBRS users or subscribers may be detrimentally affected bybeing dropped or rate restricted.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are methods and systems for citizens broadband radioservice (CBRS) network interference management using dual subscriberidentification module (SIM) devices. In an implementation, the methodincludes assigning a physical cell identity (PCI) to each connectedCitizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) device (CBSD) granted unlicensedspectrum by a spectrum access system (SAS), where multiple clusters areformed containing different spectrum granted CBSDs. Each of the spectrumgranted CBSDs may exchange PCIs with neighbor spectrum granted CBSDs fora defined period of time to resolve PCI information and each CBSDmaintains a PCI table. A dual SIM device may be connected to a CBSD viaa first SIM device in a dual SIM device. Each spectrum granted CBSDhaving a connected dual SIM device reports a number of PCIs detected bythe dual SIM device(s). A SAS designated dual SIM device may use asecond SIM device to measure power values of PCIs detected by thedesignated dual SIM device which are absent from a PCI table provided anassociated spectrum granted CBSD. The measured power values may bereported to the SAS, which in turn may make cluster interferencedecisions based on the measured power values.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure is best understood from the following detaileddescription when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Itis emphasized that, according to common practice, the various featuresof the drawings are not to scale. On the contrary, the dimensions of thevarious features are arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a citizens broadband radio service(CBRS) network with dual subscriber identification module (SIM) devicesin accordance with embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a graphical illustration of an example of a CBSD with sectorsin accordance with embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example of a CBRS device (CBSD) inaccordance with embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example of a device in accordance withembodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example of a dual SIM device inaccordance with embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example of another dual SIM device inaccordance with embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method for CBRS network interferencemanagement using dual SIM devices in accordance with embodiments of thisdisclosure.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an example method for interference spectrumbased network interference management using dual SIM devices inaccordance with embodiments of this disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an example method for unlicensed spectrumnetwork interference management using dual SIM devices in accordancewith embodiments of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in greater detail to embodiments of theinvention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be usedthroughout the drawings and the description to refer to the same or likeparts.

As used herein, the terminology “computer” or “computing device”includes any unit, or combination of units, capable of performing anymethod, or any portion or portions thereof, disclosed herein. Forexample, the “computer” or “computing device” may include at least oneor more processor(s).

As used herein, the terminology “processor” indicates one or moreprocessors, such as one or more special purpose processors, one or moredigital signal processors, one or more microprocessors, one or morecontrollers, one or more microcontrollers, one or more applicationprocessors, one or more central processing units (CPU)s, one or moregraphics processing units (GPU)s, one or more digital signal processors(DSP)s, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASIC)s,one or more application specific standard products, one or more fieldprogrammable gate arrays, any other type or combination of integratedcircuits, one or more state machines, or any combination thereof.

As used herein, the terminology “memory” indicates any computer-usableor computer-readable medium or device that can tangibly contain, store,communicate, or transport any signal or information that may be used byor in connection with any processor. For example, a memory may be one ormore read-only memories (ROM), one or more random access memories (RAM),one or more registers, low power double data rate (LPDDR) memories, oneor more cache memories, one or more semiconductor memory devices, one ormore magnetic media, one or more optical media, one or moremagneto-optical media, or any combination thereof.

As used herein, the terminology “instructions” may include directions orexpressions for performing any method, or any portion or portionsthereof, disclosed herein, and may be realized in hardware, software, orany combination thereof. For example, instructions may be implemented asinformation, such as a computer program, stored in memory that may beexecuted by a processor to perform any of the respective methods,algorithms, aspects, or combinations thereof, as described herein.Instructions, or a portion thereof, may be implemented as a specialpurpose processor, or circuitry, that may include specialized hardwarefor carrying out any of the methods, algorithms, aspects, orcombinations thereof, as described herein. In some implementations,portions of the instructions may be distributed across multipleprocessors on a single device, on multiple devices, which maycommunicate directly or across a network such as a local area network, awide area network, the Internet, or a combination thereof.

As used herein, the term “application” refers generally to a unit ofexecutable software that implements or performs one or more functions,tasks or activities. For example, applications may perform one or morefunctions including, but not limited to, telephony, web browsers,e-commerce transactions, media players, travel scheduling andmanagement, smart home management, entertainment, and the like. The unitof executable software generally runs in a predetermined environmentand/or a processor.

As used herein, the terminology “determine” and “identify,” or anyvariations thereof includes selecting, ascertaining, computing, lookingup, receiving, determining, establishing, obtaining, or otherwiseidentifying or determining in any manner whatsoever using one or more ofthe devices and methods are shown and described herein.

As used herein, the terminology “example,” “the embodiment,”“implementation,” “aspect,” “feature,” or “element” indicates serving asan example, instance, or illustration. Unless expressly indicated, anyexample, embodiment, implementation, aspect, feature, or element isindependent of each other example, embodiment, implementation, aspect,feature, or element and may be used in combination with any otherexample, embodiment, implementation, aspect, feature, or element.

As used herein, the terminology “or” is intended to mean an inclusive“or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is unless specified otherwise,or clear from context, “X includes A or B” is intended to indicate anyof the natural inclusive permutations. That is if X includes A; Xincludes B; or X includes both A and B, then “X includes A or B” issatisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition, thearticles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appendedclaims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unlessspecified otherwise or clear from the context to be directed to asingular form.

Further, for simplicity of explanation, although the figures anddescriptions herein may include sequences or series of steps or stages,elements of the methods disclosed herein may occur in various orders orconcurrently. Additionally, elements of the methods disclosed herein mayoccur with other elements not explicitly presented and described herein.Furthermore, not all elements of the methods described herein may berequired to implement a method in accordance with this disclosure.Although aspects, features, and elements are described herein inparticular combinations, each aspect, feature, or element may be usedindependently or in various combinations with or without other aspects,features, and elements.

Further, the figures and descriptions provided herein may be simplifiedto illustrate aspects of the described embodiments that are relevant fora clear understanding of the herein disclosed processes, machines,manufactures, and/or compositions of matter, while eliminating for thepurpose of clarity other aspects that may be found in typical similardevices, systems, compositions and methods. Those of ordinary skill maythus recognize that other elements and/or steps may be desirable ornecessary to implement the devices, systems, compositions and methodsdescribed herein. However, because such elements and steps are wellknown in the art, and because they do not facilitate a betterunderstanding of the disclosed embodiments, a discussion of suchelements and steps may not be provided herein. However, the presentdisclosure is deemed to inherently include all such elements,variations, and modifications to the described aspects that would beknown to those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art in light of thediscussion herein.

Described herein are methods, devices, and systems for citizensbroadband radio service (CBRS) network interference management usingdual subscriber identification module (SIM) devices. A spectrum accesssystem (SAS) is provided with actual measurements to estimateinterference for a given location in the CBRS network. The propagationand pathless models used by the SAS may not reflect the trueinterference environment. The method may improve user experience whenusing the CBRS spectrum for connectivity and communications. Forexample, this may prevent a user from being disconnected.

In an implementation, the dual SIMs in a dual SIM device may be used forboth data communications or user traffic and for taking measurementdata. The measurement data may be provided to an appropriate CBRS Device(CBSD), which in turn may forward the measurement data to the SAS. TheSAS may then determine the interference environment. Since theinterference environment is based on real measurement data, interferencemanagement decisions by the SAS may be more granular.

In an implementation, SAS spectrum granted CBSDs may be organized asclusters and may provide spectrum coverage for a geographic location.Each CBSD may have one or more sectors and each sector may be associatedwith a physical cell identity (PCI). One SIM of a dual SIM device may beconnected to a CBSD via a sector for data communications. The dual SIMdevice may inform the CBSD how many PCIs are detected by the dual SIMdevice. Each CBSD with a connected dual SIM device may then provide thenumber of detected PCIs to the SAS. The SAS may then select a dual SIMdevice for each CBSD to make power measurements with respect to CBSDsoutside its cluster, inside its cluster, and/or both using the secondSIM of the dual SIM device. Since the dual SIM device is moving, the SASmay use the power measurement data to make an interference map andmitigate chances of deallocating spectrum to the CBSD.

In an implementation, selection of which dual SIM device to make thepower measurements may be based on a variety of factors. This mayinclude, but is not limited to, number of PCIs seen by the dual SIMdevice, how many measurements has a particular dual SIM device made,time interval between measurements and the like. A dual SIM device maybe limited to how often it is selected or makes measurements to avoiddraining the power of the dual SIM device.

In an implementation, SAS spectrum granted CBSDs may exchange PCIs withneighbor CBSDs to decrease PCI convergence time, which is the timeinterval needed to make sure duplicate PCIs are not being used. Uponselection by the SAS of a selected dual SIM device for each CBSD, eachCBSD may provide a PCI list to the selected dual SIM device. Theselected dual SIM device may use this PCI table to determine which CBSDsand/or CBSD sectors to measure power. The PCI table may be updated whenthere are changes in the PCIs in a given cluster.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example architecture 1000 for CBRS networkinterference management using dual SIM devices. In an implementation,the architecture 1000 may include a first cluster 1100 which may providewireless coverage for a first geographic location and a second cluster1200 which may provide wireless coverage for a second geographiclocation. The first cluster 1100 may be controlled by a controller 1105and the second cluster 1200 may be controlled by a controller 1205. Thefirst cluster 1100 may include CBSDs 1110, 1120, and 1130, and thesecond cluster 1200 may include CBSDs 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240. Thenumber of clusters and the number of CBSDs is illustrative and thearchitecture 1000 may include more or less clusters and each cluster mayinclude more or less CDSDs. The architecture 1000 may include a SAS 1300which is connected to or in communication (collectively “incommunication with”) with each of the CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130, 1210,1220, 1230, and 1240. A dual SIM device 1400 and a dual SIM device 1500may each be in communication with one of the CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130,1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240. The communications between the dual SIMdevice 1400 and the dual SIM device 1500, particular CBSDs 1110, 1120,1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240, the SAS 1300 may include wiredcommunications, wireless communications, or a combination thereof. In animplementation, the architecture 1000 may execute the techniquesdescribed in FIGS. 7-9. The architecture 1000 is illustrative and mayinclude additional, fewer or different devices, entities and the likewhich may be similarly or differently architected without departing fromthe scope of the specification and claims herein. Moreover, theillustrated devices may perform other functions without departing fromthe scope of the specification and claims herein.

The CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240 may be a basestation, an access point, an access node or like device which enablesradio communications access between, for example, the dual SIM device1400 and the dual SIM device 1500 to other devices. Each CBSD 1110,1120, 1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240 may be authorized and grantedspectrum allocation by the SAS 1300 (which may be communicated via thecontroller 1105 or the controller 1205, for example, inimplementations). Each CBSD 1110, 1120, 1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240may have sectors which provide wireless communications coverage. Forexample, FIG. 2 shows a graphical illustration of an example of a CBSD2000 with three sectors, i.e., sector 1, sector 2, and sector 3 inaccordance with embodiments of this disclosure. Each sector may beidentified with a physical cell identity (PCI). The number of sectors isillustrative and may vary without departing from the scope of thespecification and claims described herein. Each CBSD may exchange PCI(s)with neighbor PCI(s) and maintain a table of neighbor PCI(s) asillustrated in Table 1, for example.

TABLE 1 PCI Table for CBSD CBSD SECTOR 1 SECTOR 2 SECTOR 3 CBSD ID: 1234PCI 100 PCI 101 PCI 102 CBSD ID: AED23 PCI 203 PCI 204 PCI 205 CBSD ID:000X1112 PCI 300 PCI 301 PCI 302

In an implementation, the CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and1240 may be part of a service provider system or multiple systemsoperator (MSO) which provides connectivity and content to the dual SIMdevice 1400 and the dual SIM device 1500, for example. In animplementation, the CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240may be operated via or under a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO)which provides connectivity and content to the dual SIM device 1400 andthe dual SIM device 1500, for example. In an implementation, the CBSDs1110, 1120, and 1130, and the CBSD 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240 may beowned and operated by the same MSO or MVNO. In an implementation, theCBSDs 1110, 1120, and 1130, and the CBSD 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240 maybe owned and operated by different MSOs or MVNOs.

In an implementation, the first cluster 1100 may provide wirelesscoverage for a first geographic location, site, and the like. Forexample, the first cluster 1100 may be grouped for a venue, largebuilding, stadium, transportation hub or station and the like. Thecontroller 1105 may manage communications with the SAS 1300. Forexample, the controller 1105 may communicate power measurements,allocation commands, and deallocation commands to and from the SAS 1300.The controller 1105 may be owned and operated by the MSO, the MVNO, or athird party.

In an implementation, the second cluster 1200 may provide wirelesscoverage for a second geographic location, site, and the like. Forexample, the second cluster 1200 may be grouped for a venue, largebuilding, stadium, transportation hub or station and the like. Thecontroller 1205 may manage communications with the SAS 1300. Forexample, the controller 1205 may communicate power measurements,allocation commands, and deallocation commands to and from the SAS 1300.The controller 1205 may be owned and operated by the MSO, the MVNO, or athird party.

The dual SIM device 1400 and the dual SIM device 1500 may be, but is notlimited to, end user devices, cellular telephones, Internet Protocol(IP) devices, mobile computers, laptops, handheld computers, PDAs,personal media devices, smartphones, notebooks, notepads, phablets andthe like which may include two (2) SIMs and at least one radio. Each SIMof the dual SIM device 1400 and the dual SIM device 1500 may beprovisioned for operation with a MSO, MVNO, or other like serviceprovider. Each dual SIM device 1400 and the dual SIM device 1500 maytherefore communicate with one SIM and perform power measurement taskswith the other SIM as described herein. A selected dual SIM device maytake power measurements of PCI(s) which are not on a PCI table providedby associated CBSD. The power measurements may be Reference SignalReceived Power (RSPP), Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ),Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), or like measurement of powerof a CBSD or CBSD sector associated with the PCI. The number of SIMS isillustrative and may be more than 2 without departing from the scope ofthe specification and claims described herein.

The SAS 1300 enables access to the CBRS spectrum and dynamically managesthe spectrum for optimal use, efficiency, and compliance with CBRSrules. The SAS 1300 communicates with each CBSD for registration, grantallocation/deallocation and interference management. The SAS 1300 mayperform interference analysis based on the power measurements receivedfrom the selected dual SIM device(s). In an implementation, the amountof interference may be determined using median, average, high, low, orother metrics using the power measurements received from the selecteddual SIM device(s). In an implementation, an interference table orpattern may be generated by the SAS as the selected dual SIM device(s)move with respect to the CBSD. In an implementation, the SAS may makeallocation and deallocation decisions based on the interference table orpattern. For example, the SAS 1300 may use reported amount of RSRP andRSSI values at certain times and location in the network. The SAS 1300may calculate average RSRP and RSSI values, and/or standard deviationsof the RSRP and RSSI values using time reported values at certainlocations. The SAS 1300 may predict interference values at locations inthe network using average±standard deviation values reported by the dualSIM device 1400, for example. In an implementation, network location maybe defined by a 10×10 meter square or squares of any size. In animplementation, interference may be determined as RSSI-RSRP. The SAS1300 may be operated be a commercial, federal entity, or somecombination thereof. In an implementation, the interference analysis maybe inter-cluster interference, intra-cluster interference, and/orcombinations thereof.

Operationally, and as described in detail herein below, the SAS 1300 maygrant spectrum to each activated CBSD, such as the CBSDs 1110, 1120,1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240. In an implementation, thecommunication may be via the controller 1105 and the controller 1205.Each CBSD or sector of the CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and1240 may be provided with or designated a PCI. The CBSDs 1110, 1120,1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240 may exchange the PCIs with neighborCBSDs until PCI designation is stable, i.e., there are no duplicate oroverlapping PCIs. Each CBSD may maintain a PCI table.

A dual SIM device, i.e., the dual SIM device 1400 and the dual SIMdevice 1500, which is connected to a CBSD via one SIM, may report to theCBSD the number of PCIs that the connected dual SIM device detects. Thenumber of detected PCIs is then reported to the SAS 1300 (via controller1105 and/or 1205 in an implementation). In an implementation, the SAS1300 may select the dual SIM device which has detected the highestnumber of PCIs for a given cluster (which may be denoted asenvironmental sensing with dual SIM device (ESDSD) to measure the powerfrom CBSDs not in the CBSD's cluster. This may be accomplished by havingthe CBSD of the ESDSD provide the ESDSD with the PCI table of neighborPCIs. The ESDSD (using the SIM that is not being used for datacommunications or traffic) may measure the power from CBSDs that areoutside the cluster, inside the cluster, and/or both. For example, ifthe dual SIM device 1400 was connected to CBSD 1120 in the first cluster1100 and was selected as the ESDSD, the dual SIM device 1400 may measurethe power from PCIs in the second cluster 1200. The measurements maythen be reported to the SAS 1300 via the CBSD (and via a controller asappropriate).

The SAS 1300 may then determine the inter-cluster interference,intra-cluster interference, and/or both and make decisions with respectto spectrum allocations/deallocations and the like. In animplementation, the SAS 1300 may be able to make an interference mapbased on the movements or mobility of the ESDSD. This may be used tomake the spectrum allocations/deallocations decisions on a more granularor in a more refined manner. In an implementation, the ESDSD may beupdated with changes in the PCIs. In an implementation, the ESDSD maytake measurements at defined intervals, as requested by the SAS 1300, ora combination thereof. The ESDSD may be changed after a defined periodso as not to drain the battery of the ESDSD. In an implementation, othertechniques may be used to select the ESDSD. For example, a set of thedual SIM devices detecting the highest number of PCIs may be used on arotating basis to prevent battery drainage.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example of a device 3000 in accordancewith embodiments of this disclosure. The device 3000 may include, but isnot limited to, a processor 3100, a memory/storage 3200, a communicationinterface 3300, applications 3400, and a radio frequency device 3500.The device 3000 may include or implement, for example, any of the CBSDs1110, 1120, 1130, 1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240. In an implementation, thememory/storage 3200 may store the PCI table. The applicable orappropriate CBRS network interference management using dual SIM devicestechniques or methods described herein may be stored in thememory/storage 3200 and executed by the processor 3100 in cooperationwith the memory/storage 3200, the communications interface 3300, theapplications 3400, and the radio frequency device 3500 as appropriate.The device 3000 may include other elements which may be desirable ornecessary to implement the devices, systems, compositions and methodsdescribed herein. However, because such elements and steps are wellknown in the art, and because they do not facilitate a betterunderstanding of the disclosed embodiments, a discussion of suchelements and steps may not be provided herein.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example of a device 4000 in accordancewith embodiments of this disclosure. The device 4000 may include, but isnot limited to, a processor 4100, a memory/storage 4200, a communicationinterface 4300, and applications 4400. In an implementation, the device4000 may include a radio frequency device 4500. The device 4000 mayinclude or implement, for example, the controller 1105, the controller1205, and the SAS 1300. In an implementation, the memory/storage 4200may store the interference map, spectrum allocations, and otherinformation. The applicable or appropriate CBRS network interferencemanagement using dual SIM devices techniques or methods described hereinmay be stored in the memory/storage 4200 and executed by the processor4100 in cooperation with the memory/storage 4200, the communicationsinterface 4300, the applications 4400, and the radio frequency device4500 (when applicable) as appropriate. The device 4000 may include otherelements which may be desirable or necessary to implement the devices,systems, compositions and methods described herein. However, becausesuch elements and steps are well known in the art, and because they donot facilitate a better understanding of the disclosed embodiments, adiscussion of such elements and steps may not be provided herein.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example of a device 5000 in accordancewith embodiments of this disclosure. The device 5000 may include, but isnot limited to, a processor 5100, a memory/storage 5200, a communicationinterface 5300, applications 5400, a radio frequency device 5500, afirst SIM 5600, and a second SIM 5700. The device 5000 may include orimplement, for example, the dual SIM devices 1400 and 1500. In animplementation, the memory/storage 5200 may store the PCI table. Theapplicable or appropriate CBRS network interference management usingdual SIM devices techniques or methods described herein may be stored inthe memory/storage 5200 and executed by the processor 5100 incooperation with the memory/storage 5200, the communications interface5300, the applications 5400, the radio frequency device 5500, the firstSIM 5600, and the second SIM 5700 as appropriate. In an implementation,the first SIM 5600 may be provisioned with one MSO, MVNO, or the like,and the second SIM 5700 may be provisioned with another MSO, MVNO, orthe like. In an implementation, the first SIM 6600 may be provisionedwith a same MSO, MVNO, or the like. In an implementation, the first SIM5600 and the second SIM 5700 may operate on a time-slotted basis withthe radio frequency device 5500. The device 5000 may include otherelements which may be desirable or necessary to implement the devices,systems, compositions and methods described herein. However, becausesuch elements and steps are well known in the art, and because they donot facilitate a better understanding of the disclosed embodiments, adiscussion of such elements and steps may not be provided herein.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example of a device 6000 in accordancewith embodiments of this disclosure. The device 6000 may include, but isnot limited to, a processor 6100, a memory/storage 6200, a communicationinterface 6300, applications 6400, a radio frequency device 1 6500, afirst SIM 6600, a radio frequency device 2 6700, and a second SIM 6800.The device 6000 may include or implement, for example, the dual SIMdevices 1400 and 1500. In an implementation, the memory/storage 6200 maystore the PCI table. The applicable or appropriate CBRS networkinterference management using dual SIM devices techniques or methodsdescribed herein may be stored in the memory/storage 6200 and executedby the processor 6100 in cooperation with the memory/storage 6200, thecommunications interface 6300, the applications 6400, the radiofrequency device 1 6500, the first SIM 6600, the radio frequency device2 6700, and the second SIM 6700 as appropriate. In an implementation,the first SIM 6600 may be provisioned with one MSO, MVNO, or the like,and the second SIM 6700 may be provisioned with another MSO, MVNO, orthe like. In an implementation, the first SIM 6600 may be provisionedwith a same MSO, MVNO, or the like. In an implementation, the first SIM6600 may operate with the radio frequency device 1 6500 and the secondSIM 6800 may operate with the radio frequency device 2 6700. The device6000 may include other elements which may be desirable or necessary toimplement the devices, systems, compositions and methods describedherein. However, because such elements and steps are well known in theart, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of thedisclosed embodiments, a discussion of such elements and steps may notbe provided herein.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method 7000 for CBRS networkinterference management using dual SIM devices in accordance withembodiments of this disclosure. The method 7000 includes: connecting7100 CBSD(s) to a SAS; granting 7150 CBRS spectrum to each CBSD;assigning 7200 a PCI to each CBSD or CBSD sector; exchanging 7250 PCI(s)with neighbor CBSD(s); waiting 7300 for PCI convergence time; connecting7350 dual SIM device(s) to a CBSD; reporting 7400 the number of PCI(s)detected to CBSD; sending 7450 the number of detected PCI(s) informationto the SAS; selecting 7500 a dual SIM device with highest number ofdetected PCI(s) for each CBSD; taking 7550 power measurements of certainPCI(s) and reporting same to CBSD; reporting 7600 power values to SAS;determining 7650 interference metric; making 7700 decisions based ondetermined interference metric; checking 7750 for changes in PCI(s); andupdating 7800 selected dual SIM device for changes in PCI(s). Forexample, the technique 7000 may be implemented, as applicable andappropriate, by a CBSD such as CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130, 1210, 1220, 1230,and 1240 of FIG. 1, controller 1105 of FIG. 1, controller 1205 of FIG.1, SAS 1300 of FIG. 1, dual SIM devices such as the dual SIM device 1400of FIG. 1, the dual SIM device 1500 of FIG. 1, the dual SIM device 5000of FIG. 5, and the dual SIM device 6000 of FIG. 6, the processor 3100 ofFIG. 3, the processor 4100 of FIG. 4, the processor 5100 of FIG. 5, andthe processor 6100 of FIG. 6.

The method 7000 includes connecting 7100 CBSD(s) to a SAS. Theconnecting 7100 may include turning on a CBSD(s) and registering withthe SAS. In an implementation, groups of CBSDs may constitute clusters.In an implementation, each cluster may be administered by a controllerwhich interacts or communicates with the SAS on behalf of the cluster.In an implementation, each cluster may be operated by a MSO, MVNO, orother service provider (collectively “service provider”). In animplementation, each cluster may be operated by same or differentservice providers.

The method 7000 includes granting 7150 CBRS spectrum to each CBSD. A SASmay grant each connected CBSD a portion of the available CBRS spectrum.The SAS may be operated by a party not associated with the serviceprovider(s). The SAS may impose the rules associated with the CBRSspectrum including interference management, spectrum allocation, andspectrum deallocation.

The method 7000 includes assigning 7200 a PCI to each CBSD and/or CBSDsector. Each CBSD may have a number of sectors which provide wirelesscommunications coverage. Assignment of the PCI(s) may use an auto-PCItechnique, a self-organizing network (SON) technique, or liketechniques.

The method 7000 includes exchanging 7250 PCI(s) with neighbor CBSD(s).Each connected CBSD may exchange PCI(s) with neighbor CBSDs to ensurethat overlapping or colliding PCI(s) are not used. Each CBSD generates aPCI table based on exchanged PCI information. In an implementation,neighbor CBSD(s) may be from the same cluster as the CBSD, neighborCBSD(s) may be from a different cluster as the CBSD, and/or combinationsthereof.

The method 7000 includes waiting 7300 for PCI convergence time. The PCIconvergence time is a defined time interval which allows the PCIs toachieve a steady state where no overlapping or colliding PCI(s) areused. The time may vary depending on the number of CBSDs involved.During this time, dual SIM devices may not connect to the CBSD. The PCItable may be updated and at end of the PCI convergence time.

The method 7000 includes connecting 7350 dual SIM device(s) to a CBSD.Dual SIM devices entering the wireless communications coverage area of aCBSD, may connect to a CBSD and inform the CBSD that it is a dual SIMdevice. In an implementation, the dual SIM device may have a first SIMfor connecting with the CBSD and a second SIM for taking powermeasurements. In an implementation, the dual SIM device may have oneradio and operate in a time-slotted manner. In an implementation, thedual SIM device may have two radios.

The method 7000 includes reporting 7400 number of PCI(s) detected toCBSD. Each dual SIM device connected to a CBSD may report the number ofPCI(s) that is detected by the dual SIM device.

The method 7000 includes sending 7450 the number of detected PCI(s)information to the SAS. Each CBSD connected to a reporting dual SIMdevice(s) forwards the number of detected PCI(s) to the SAS.

The method 7000 includes selecting 7500 a dual SIM device with highestnumber of detected PCI(s) for each CBSD. The SAS may inform each CBSDwhich dual SIM device is to take the power measurements. The selecting7500 may include each CBSD informing the selected dual SIM device andsending the PCI table to the selected dual SIM device. In animplementation, the SAS may select the dual SIM device using the abovemetrics and other metrics such as defined times of operation, specificlocations, and combinations thereof.

The method 7000 includes taking 7550 power measurements of certainPCI(s) and reporting same to CBSD. The selected dual SIM device uses theunconnected SIM to take power measurements for PCIs which are not listedon the PCI table provided by the CBSD. In an implementation, theselected dual SIM device may take measurements for a defined period oftime to conserve battery power. In an implementation, the powermeasurements may be RSSI, RSRP, RSRQ, and the like.

The method 7000 includes reporting 7600 power values to the SAS. EachCBSD forwards the power measurements to the SAS from the selected dualSIM devices.

The method 7000 includes determining 7650 an interference metric. In animplementation, the interference metric may indicate the level ofinterference from PCIs outside a cluster associated with the CBSDconnected to the dual SIM device. The interference metric may use anaverage value, a median value, a high value, a low value, or likemathematical function or operator to determine the level ofinterference. In an implementation, the SAS may create an interferencemap, or an interference histogram based on the interference metric. Inan implementation, the interference metric may indicate the level ofinterference from PCIs inside a cluster associated with the CBSDconnected to the dual SIM device. In an implementation, the interferencemetric may indicate the level of interference from PCIs outside acluster associated with the CBSD connected to the dual SIM device, theinterference metric may indicate the level of interference from PCIsinside a cluster associated with the CBSD connected to the dual SIMdevice, and/or combinations thereof.

The method 7000 includes making 7700 decisions based on the determinedinterference metric. The SAS may make allocation and deallocationdecisions with respect to the CBRS spectrum based on the determinedinterference metric. In an implementation, the SAS may use theinterference map, or an interference histogram to make allocation anddeallocation decisions.

The method 7000 includes checking 7750 for changes in PCI(s). Each CBSDmay check against neighbor CBSDs for changes to the PCI table. Thechecking 7750 includes the dual SIM device(s) taking additional powermeasurements with the original PCI table(s) if there are no PCI changesand following the techniques described herein.

The method 7000 includes updating 7800 the selected dual SIM device forchanges in PCI(s). Each CBSD may update the PCI table based on changes,additions, deletions, and the like to the CBSDs or CBSD sectors. Theupdating 7800 includes the dual SIM device(s) taking additional powermeasurements with the updated PCI table(s) if there are PCI changes andfollowing the techniques described herein.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an example method 8000 for interferencespectrum based network interference management using dual SIM devices inaccordance with embodiments of this disclosure. The method 8000includes: connecting 8100 interference based access point(s) to a SAS;granting 8150 interference based spectrum to each interference basedaccess point; assigning 8200 a PCI to each interference based accesspoint or interference based access point sector; exchanging 8250 PCI(s)with neighbor interference based access point(s) for convergence time;connecting 8300 dual SIM device(s) to an interference based accesspoint; reporting 8350 the number of PCI(s) detected; selecting 8400 adual SIM device for each interference based access point; taking 8450power measurements of certain PCI(s) and reporting same; determining8500 cluster interference metric; making 8550 decisions based ondetermined cluster interference metric; checking 8600 for changes inPCI(s); updating 8650 selected dual SIM device(s) for changes in PCI(s);and updating 8700 the selection of dual SIM device for each interferencebased access point. For example, the technique 8000 may be implemented,as applicable and appropriate, by a CBSD such as CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130,1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240 of FIG. 1, controller 1105 of FIG. 1,controller 1205 of FIG. 1, SAS 1300 of FIG. 1, dual SIM devices such asthe dual SIM device 1400 of FIG. 1, the dual SIM device 1500 of FIG. 1,the dual SIM device 5000 of FIG. 5, and the dual SIM device 6000 of FIG.6, the processor 3100 of FIG. 3, the processor 4100 of FIG. 4, theprocessor 5100 of FIG. 5, and the processor 6100 of FIG. 6.

The method 8000 includes connecting 8100 interference based accesspoint(s) to a SAS. The connecting 8100 may include turning on theinterference based access point(s) and registering with the SAS. In animplementation, groups of interference based access point(s) mayconstitute clusters. In an implementation, each cluster may beadministered by a controller which interacts or communicates with theSAS on behalf of the cluster. In an implementation, each cluster may beoperated by a MSO, MVNO, or other service provider (collectively“service provider”). In an implementation, each cluster may be operatedby same or different service providers.

The method 8000 includes granting 8150 interference based spectrum toeach interference based access point. A SAS may grant each connectedinterference based access point a portion of the available interferencebased spectrum. The SAS may be operated by a party not associated withthe service provider(s). The SAS may impose the rules associated withthe interference based spectrum including interference management,spectrum allocation, and spectrum deallocation.

The method 8000 includes assigning 8200 a PCI to each interference basedaccess point or interference based access point sector. Eachinterference based access point may have a number of sectors whichprovide wireless communications coverage. Assignment of the PCI(s) mayuse an auto-PCI technique, a self-organizing network (SON) technique, orlike techniques.

The method 8000 includes exchanging 8250 PCI(s) with neighborinterference based access point(s) for convergence time. Each connectedinterference based access point may exchange PCI(s) with neighborinterference based access points to ensure that overlapping or collidingPCI(s) are not used. Each interference based access point generates aPCI table based on exchanged PCI information. The convergence time is adefined time interval which allows the PCIs to achieve a steady statewhere no overlapping or colliding PCI(s) are used. The time may vary,for example, depending on the number of interference based access pointsinvolved in each cluster. During this time, dual SIM devices may notconnect to the interference based access point. The PCI table may beupdated and at end of the PCI convergence time.

The method 8000 includes connecting 8300 dual SIM device(s) to aninterference based access point. Dual SIM devices entering the wirelesscommunications coverage area of an interference based access point, mayconnect to the interference based access point and inform theinterference based access point that it is a dual SIM device. In animplementation, the dual SIM device may have a first SIM for connectingwith the interference based access point and a second SIM for takingpower measurements. In an implementation, the dual SIM device may haveone radio and operate in a time-slotted manner. In an implementation,the dual SIM device may have two radios.

The method 8000 includes reporting 8350 the number of PCI(s) detected.Each dual SIM device connected to an interference based access point mayreport the number of PCI(s) that is detected by the dual SIM device tothe interference based access point. In an implementation, the SIMconnected to the interference based access point may be detecting thePCI(s). Each interference based access point may send the number ofdetected PCI(s) information to the SAS.

The method 8000 includes selecting 8400 a dual SIM device for eachinterference based access point. In an implementation, the SAS mayselect the dual SIM device with highest number of detected PCI(s) foreach interference based access point. In an implementation, the SAS mayselect a set of dual SIM devices with the highest number of detectedPCI(s) for each interference based access point and rotate through theset to conserve the battery power of the selected set of dual SIMdevices. In an implementation, the SAS may select the dual SIM deviceusing the above metrics and other metrics such as defined times ofoperation, specific locations, and combinations thereof. The SAS mayinform each interference based access point which dual SIM device is totake the power measurements. The selecting 8400 may include eachinterference based access point informing the selected dual SIM deviceand sending the PCI table to the selected dual SIM device.

The method 8000 includes taking 8450 power measurements of certainPCI(s) and reporting same. The selected dual SIM device uses theunconnected SIM to take power measurements for PCIs which are not listedon the PCI table provided by the interference based access point. In animplementation, the selected dual SIM device may take measurements for adefined period of time to conserve battery power. In an implementation,the power measurements may be RSSI, RSRP, RSRQ, and the like. The taking8450 includes each interference based access point forwarding the powermeasurements to the SAS from the selected dual SIM devices.

The method 8000 includes determining 8500 cluster interference metric.The cluster interference metric may indicate the level of interferencefrom PCIs outside a cluster associated with the interference basedaccess point connected to the dual SIM device. The interference metricmay use an average value, a median value, a high value, a low value, orlike mathematical function or operator to determine the level ofinterference. In an implementation, the SAS may create an interferencemap, or an interference histogram based on the interference metric. Inan implementation, the cluster interference metric may indicate thelevel of interference from PCIs inside a cluster associated with theinterference based access point connected to the dual SIM device. In animplementation, the cluster interference metric may indicate the levelof interference from PCIs outside a cluster associated with theinterference based access point connected to the dual SIM device, thecluster interference metric may indicate the level of interference fromPCIs inside a cluster associated with the interference based accesspoint connected to the dual SIM device, or combinations thereof.

The method 8000 includes making 8550 decisions based on determinedcluster interference metric. The SAS may make allocation anddeallocation decisions with respect to the interference based spectrumbased on the determined interference metric. In an implementation, theSAS may use the interference map, or an interference histogram to makeallocation and deallocation decisions.

The method 8000 includes checking 8600 for changes in PCI(s). Eachinterference based access point may check against neighbor interferencebased access points for changes to the PCI table.

The method 8000 includes updating 8650 the selected dual SIM device(s)for changes in PCI(s). Each interference based access point may updatethe PCI table based on changes, additions, deletions, and the like tothe interference based access points or interference based access pointsectors.

The method 8000 includes updating 8700 the selection of dual SIM devicefor each interference based access point. In an implementation, the SASmay select a next highest dual SIM device to conserve battery power ofthe previous selected dual SIM device. In an implementation, the SAS mayrotate through the set of selected dual SIM devices. The updating 8700includes the selected dual SIM device(s) taking additional powermeasurements with the original PCI table or with the updated PCItable(s) if there are PCI changes, and following the techniquesdescribed herein.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an example method 9000 for unlicensed spectrumnetwork interference management using dual SIM devices in accordancewith embodiments of this disclosure. The method 9000 includes: granting9100 unlicensed spectrum to each connected base station; exchanging 9150assigned PCI(s) with neighbor base stations(s) for a convergence time;reporting 9200 the number of PCI(s) detected by each connected dual SIMdevice; selecting 9250 a dual SIM device for each base station; taking9300 power measurements of certain PCI(s) and reporting same;determining 9350 cluster interference metric; making 9400 decisionsbased on determined cluster interference metric; checking 9450 forchanges in PCI(s); updating 9500 selected dual SIM device(s) for changesin PCI(s); and updating 9550 the selection of dual SIM device for eachbase station. For example, the technique 9000 may be implemented, asapplicable and appropriate, by a CBSD such as CBSDs 1110, 1120, 1130,1210, 1220, 1230, and 1240 of FIG. 1, controller 1105 of FIG. 1,controller 1205 of FIG. 1, SAS 1300 of FIG. 1, dual SIM devices such asthe dual SIM device 1400 of FIG. 1, the dual SIM device 1500 of FIG. 1,the dual SIM device 5000 of FIG. 5, and the dual SIM device 6000 of FIG.6, the processor 3100 of FIG. 3, the processor 4100 of FIG. 4, theprocessor 5100 of FIG. 5, and the processor 6100 of FIG. 6.

The method 9000 includes granting 9100 unlicensed spectrum to eachconnected base station. The granting 9100 may include turning on,registering, and connecting a base station to a SAS. In animplementation, groups of base station(s) may constitute clusters. In animplementation, each cluster may be administered by a controller whichinteracts or communicates with the SAS on behalf of the cluster. In animplementation, each cluster may be operated by a MSO, MVNO, or otherservice provider (collectively “service provider”). In animplementation, each cluster may be operated by same or differentservice providers. The SAS may grant each connected base station aportion of the available unlicensed spectrum. The SAS may be operated bya party not associated with the service provider(s). The SAS may imposethe rules associated with the unlicensed spectrum including interferencemanagement, spectrum allocation, and spectrum deallocation.

The method 9000 includes exchanging 9150 assigned PCI(s) with neighborbase stations(s) for a convergence time. The exchanging 9150 includesassigning a PCI to each base station and/or base station sector. Eachbase station may have a number of sectors which provide wirelesscommunications coverage. Assignment of the PCI(s) may use an auto-PCItechnique, a self-organizing network (SON) technique, or liketechniques. Each connected base station may exchange PCI(s) withneighbor base stations to ensure that overlapping or colliding PCI(s)are not used. Each base station generates a PCI table based on exchangedPCI information. The convergence time is a defined time interval whichallows the PCIs to achieve a steady state where no overlapping orcolliding PCI(s) are used. The time may vary, for example, depending onthe number of base stations involved in each cluster. During this time,dual SIM devices may not connect to the base station. The PCI table maybe updated and at end of the PCI convergence time. In an implementation,the neighbor base stations(s) may be in a same cluster with the basestation, the neighbor base stations(s) may be in a different clusterfrom the base station, and the neighbor base stations(s), and/orcombinations thereof.

The method 9000 includes reporting 9200 the number of PCI(s) detected byeach connected dual SIM device. The reporting 9200 includes connectingdual SIM device(s) to a base station. Dual SIM devices entering thewireless communications coverage area of a base station may connect tothe base station and inform the base station that it is a dual SIMdevice. In an implementation, the dual SIM device may have a first SIMfor connecting with base station and a second SIM for taking powermeasurements. In an implementation, the dual SIM device may have oneradio and operate in a time-slotted manner. In an implementation, thedual SIM device may have two radios. Each dual SIM device connected to abase station may report the number of PCI(s) that is detected by thedual SIM device to the base station. Each base station may send thenumber of detected PCI(s) information to the SAS.

The method 9000 includes selecting 9250 a dual SIM device for each basestation. In an implementation, the SAS may select the dual SIM devicewith highest number of detected PCI(s) for each base station. In animplementation, the SAS may select a set of dual SIM devices with thehighest number of detected PCI(s) for each base station and rotatethrough the set to conserve the battery power of the selected set ofdual SIM devices. In an implementation, the SAS may select the dual SIMdevice using the above metrics and other metrics such as defined timesof operation, specific locations, and combinations thereof. The SAS mayinform each base station which dual SIM device is to take the powermeasurements. The selecting 9250 may include each base station informingthe selected dual SIM device and sending the PCI table to the selecteddual SIM device.

The method 9000 includes taking 9300 power measurements of certainPCI(s) and reporting same. The selected dual SIM device uses theunconnected SIM to take power measurements for PCIs which are not listedon the PCI table provided by the base station. In an implementation, theselected dual SIM device may take measurements for a defined period oftime to conserve battery power. In an implementation, the powermeasurements may be RSSI, RSRP, RSRQ, and the like. The taking 9300includes each base station forwarding the power measurements to the SASfrom the selected dual SIM devices.

The method 9000 includes determining 9350 cluster interference metric.In an implementation, the cluster interference metric may indicate thelevel of interference from PCIs outside a cluster associated with thebase station connected to the dual SIM device. The interference metricmay use an average value, a median value, a high value, a low value, orlike mathematical function or operator to determine the level ofinterference. In an implementation, the SAS may create an interferencemap, or an interference histogram based on the interference metric. Inan implementation, the cluster interference metric may indicate thelevel of interference from PCIs inside a cluster associated with thebase station connected to the dual SIM device. In an implementation, thecluster interference metric may indicate the level of interference fromPCIs outside a cluster associated with the base station connected to thedual SIM device, the cluster interference metric may indicate the levelof interference from PCIs inside a cluster associated with the basestation connected to the dual SIM device, or combinations thereof.

The method 9000 includes making 9400 decisions based on determinedcluster interference metric. The SAS may make allocation anddeallocation decisions with respect to the unlicensed spectrum based onthe determined interference metric. In an implementation, the SAS mayuse the interference map, or an interference histogram to makeallocation and deallocation decisions.

The method 9000 includes checking 9450 for changes in PCI(s). Each basestation may check against neighbor base station for changes to the PCItable.

The method 9000 includes updating 9500 selected dual SIM device(s) forchanges in PCI(s). Each base station may update the PCI table based onchanges, additions, deletions, and the like to the base stations or basestation sectors.

The method 9000 includes updating 9550 the selection of dual SIM devicefor each base station. In an implementation, the SAS may select a nexthighest dual SIM device to conserve battery power of the previousselected dual SIM device. In an implementation, the SAS may rotatethrough the set of selected dual SIM devices. The updating 9550 includesthe selected dual SIM device(s) taking additional power measurementswith the original PCI table or with the updated PCI table(s) if thereare PCI changes, and following the techniques described herein.

In general, a method for measuring network interference using dualsubscriber identification module (SIM) devices includes assigning aphysical cell identity (PCI) to each connected Citizens Broadband RadioService (CBRS) device (CBSD) granted unlicensed spectrum by a spectrumaccess system (SAS), where multiple clusters are formed containingdifferent spectrum granted CBSDs. Each spectrum granted CBSD exchangesPCIs with neighbor spectrum granted CBSDs, where each spectrum grantedCBSD maintains a PCI table. A first SIM device in a dual SIM deviceconnects to a spectrum granted CBSD after convergence of PCI tables. Thenumber of PCIs detected by the dual SIM device is reported to the SAS byeach spectrum granted CBSD having a connected dual SIM device. Each SASdesignated dual SIM device measures using a second SIM device, powervalues of PCIs detected by the designated dual SIM device which areabsent from the PCI table provided by an associated spectrum grantedCBSD. The measured power values are reported to the SAS. Clusterinterference decisions are made based on the measured power values andreported. In an implementation, CBSDs connect and register to the SAS.PCIs are assigned to each CBSD and CBSD sector. In an implementation, aconvergence interval is waited for the PCIs to achieve a steady statewhere overlapping or colliding PCI(s) are prevented. In animplementation, each dual SIM device informs a CBSD that the dual SIMdevice is a dual SIM device. In an implementation, each associatedspectrum granted CBSD having a connected dual SIM device reports anumber of PCIs detected by the dual SIM device. In an implementation,each SAS designated dual SIM device is dual SIM device which detectedgreatest number of PCIs. In an implementation, each SAS designated dualSIM device is based on least one of dual SIM device which detectedgreatest number of PCIs, dual SIM device times of operation, and dualSIM device location. In an implementation, each SAS designated dual SIMdevice takes the power measurements for a defined period of time.

In general, a method for measuring network interference using dualsubscriber identification module (SIM) devices includes generating, byeach shared spectrum interference based device, a physical cell identity(PCI) table by exchanging PCIs with neighbor shared spectruminterference based devices for a defined period of time to resolvenon-overlapping PCI usage. Each shared spectrum interference baseddevice having at least one connected dual SIM device reports to aspectrum access system (SAS) a number of PCIs detected by the at leastone dual SIM device. Each shared spectrum interference based devicehaving the at least one connected dual SIM device shares a PCI tablewith a selected dual SIM device. Each selected dual SIM device usinganother SIM device measures power values of PCIs detected by eachselected dual SIM device which are missing from the shared PCI table.Spectrum interference decisions based on the measured power values aremade. In an implementation, PCIs are assigned to each shared spectruminterference based device and each sector of each shared spectruminterference based device. In an implementation, each dual SIM deviceinforms a dual SIM device status to an associated shared spectruminterference based device. In an implementation, for each sharedspectrum interference based device, a set of dual SIM devices havinghighest number of detected PCIs is selected. In an implementation, oneof the set of dual SIM devices is selected to take power measurementsfor a designated period of time. In an implementation, another one ofthe set of dual SIM devices is selected to take power measurements for adesignated period of time after the one dual SIM device has reportedpower measurements. In an implementation, a selection is further basedon least one of dual SIM device times of operation and dual SIM devicelocation.

In general, a system for measuring network interference using dualsubscriber identification module (SIM) devices includes a plurality ofCitizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) devices (CBSDs) forming a firstcluster, wherein each CBSD and CBSD sector have a physical cell identity(PCIs) which are exchanged between neighboring CBSDs within the firstcluster to yield unique PCIs for each CBSD and CBSD sector, and anotherplurality of Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) devices (CBSDs)forming a second cluster, wherein each CBSD and CBSD sector have aphysical cell identity (PCIs) which are exchanged between neighboringCBSDs within the second cluster to yield unique PCIs for each CBSD andCBSD sector, and where the first cluster and the second cluster havenon-overlapping CBSDs. The system further includes a spectrum accesssystem (SAS) configured to grant unlicensed spectrum to the plurality ofCBSDs and the another plurality of CBSDs. The system further includes adual SIM device configured to connect via a first SIM to a CBSD in oneof the first cluster or the second cluster and report a number ofdetected PCIs, and a selected dual SIM device configured to take powermeasurements, via a second SIM, of PCIs detected by the selected dualSIM device which are in one of the first cluster or the second clusterunassociated with the CBSD, and where the selected dual SIM device isselected from the at least one dual SIM device. The SAS configured tomake inter-cluster and intra-cluster interference decisions based onreceived power measurements from the selected dual SIM device. In animplementation, the CBSD is configured to share a PCI table with theselected dual SIM device. In an implementation, the selected dual SIMdevice is dual SIM device which detected greatest number of PCIs. In animplementation, the selected dual SIM device is based on least one ofdual SIM device which detected greatest number of PCIs, dual SIM devicetimes of operation, and dual SIM device location. In an implementation,each selected dual SIM device takes the power measurements for a definedperiod of time.

Although some embodiments herein refer to methods, it will beappreciated by one skilled in the art that they may also be embodied asa system or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of thepresent invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment,an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software,micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardwareaspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “processor,”“device,” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present invention maytake the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more thecomputer readable mediums having the computer readable program codeembodied thereon. Any combination of one or more computer readablemediums may be utilized. The computer readable medium may be a computerreadable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computerreadable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, anelectronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, orsemiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combinationof the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of thecomputer-readable storage medium include the following: an electricalconnection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, ahard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), anerasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), anoptical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), anoptical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitablecombination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, acomputer-readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that cancontain, or store a program for use by or in connection with aninstruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signalwith computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, inbaseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may takeany of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to,electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. Acomputer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium thatis not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate,propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with aninstruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

Program code embodied on a computer readable medium may be transmittedusing any appropriate medium, including but not limited to CDs, DVDs,wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitablecombination of the foregoing.

Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of thepresent invention may be written in any combination of one or moreprogramming languages, including an object oriented programming languagesuch as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional proceduralprogramming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similarprogramming languages. The program code may execute entirely on theuser's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alonesoftware package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remotecomputer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latterscenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computerthrough any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or awide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an externalcomputer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet ServiceProvider).

Aspects of the present invention are described herein with reference toflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus(systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of theinvention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchartillustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in theflowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented bycomputer program instructions.

These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of ageneral purpose computer, special purpose computer, or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such thatthe instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer orother programmable data processing apparatus, create means forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks. These computer program instructions may also bestored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, otherprogrammable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function ina particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computerreadable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructionswhich implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer,other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to causea series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, otherprogrammable apparatus or other devices to produce a computerimplemented process such that the instructions which execute on thecomputer or other programmable apparatus provide processes forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate thearchitecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementationsof systems, methods, and computer program products according to variousembodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in theflowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portionof code, which comprises one or more executable instructions forimplementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be notedthat, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in theblock may occur out of the order noted in the figures.

While the disclosure has been described in connection with certainembodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to belimited to the disclosed embodiments but, on the contrary, is intendedto cover various modifications, combinations, and equivalentarrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, whichscope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompassall such modifications and equivalent structures as is permitted underthe law.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for measuring network interference usingdual subscriber identification module (SIM) devices, the methodcomprising: assigning a physical cell identity (PCI) to each connectedCitizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) device (CBSD) granted unlicensedspectrum by a spectrum access system (SAS), wherein multiple clustersare formed containing different spectrum granted CBSDs; exchanging, byeach spectrum granted CBSD with neighbor spectrum granted CBSDs, thePCIs, wherein each spectrum granted CBSD maintains a PCI table;connecting, via first SIM devices in dual SIM devices, to a spectrumgranted CBSD after convergence of PCI tables; reporting, to the SAS byeach spectrum granted CBSD having connected dual SIM devices, a numberof PCIs detected by each of the dual SIM devices using their respectivefirst SIM devices; measuring, by each SAS designated dual SIM deviceusing their respective second SIM device, power values of PCIs detectedby the SAS designated dual SIM device which are absent from the PCItable provided by an associated spectrum granted CBSD, wherein the eachSAS designated dual SIM device is one of the connected dual SIM deviceswhich reported the number of PCIs detected using their respective firstdevices; reporting, to the SAS by each SAS designated dual SIM devicevia an associated spectrum granted CBSD, the measured power values; andreceiving, from the SAS by each spectrum granted CBSD, clusterinterference decisions based on the measured power values.
 2. The methodof claim 1, the method further comprising: connecting and registering,by CBSDs, to the SAS.
 3. The method of claim 2, the method furthercomprising: assigning PCIs to each CBSD and CBSD sector.
 4. The methodof claim 3, the method further comprising: waiting for a convergenceinterval for the PCIs to achieve a steady state where overlapping orcolliding PCI(s) are prevented.
 5. The method of claim 4, the methodfurther comprising: informing, to a CBSD by each dual SIM device, thatthe dual SIM device is a dual SIM device.
 6. The method of claim 5, themethod further comprising: reporting, to each associated spectrumgranted CBSD having a connected dual SIM device, a number of PCIsdetected by the dual SIM device.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein eachSAS designated dual SIM device is a dual SIM device which detected agreater number of PCIs than other dual SIM devices reporting to a sameassociated spectrum granted CBSD.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein eachSAS designated dual SIM device is based on least one of dual SIM devicewhich detected a greater number of PCIs than other dual SIM devicesreporting to a same associated spectrum granted CBSD, dual SIM devicetimes of operation, and dual SIM device location.
 9. The method of claim1, wherein each SAS designated dual SIM device takes the powermeasurements for a defined period of time.
 10. A method for measuringnetwork interference using dual subscriber identification module (SIM)devices, the method comprising: generating, by each shared spectruminterference based device, a physical cell identity (PCI) table byexchanging PCIs with neighbor shared spectrum interference based devicesfor a defined period of time to resolve non-overlapping PCI usage;reporting, to a spectrum access system (SAS) by each shared spectruminterference based device having at least one connected dual SIM device,a number of PCIs detected by the at least one dual SIM device using aSIM device; sharing, by each shared spectrum interference based devicehaving the at least one connected dual SIM device, a PCI table with aselected dual SIM device; measuring, by each selected dual SIM deviceusing another SIM device, power values of PCIs detected by each selecteddual SIM device which are missing from the shared PCI table; and makingspectrum interference decisions, by the SAS, based on the measured powervalues.
 11. The method of claim 10, the method further comprising:assigning PCIs to each shared spectrum interference based device andeach sector of each shared spectrum interference based device.
 12. Themethod of claim 10, the method further comprising: informing, by eachdual SIM device, a dual SIM device status to an associated sharedspectrum interference based device.
 13. The method of claim 10, themethod further comprising: selecting, for each shared spectruminterference based device, a set of dual SIM devices having highestnumber of detected PCIs; and selecting one of the set of dual SIMdevices to take power measurements for a designated period of time. 14.The method of claim 13, the method further comprising: selecting anotherone of the set of dual SIM devices to take power measurements for adesignated period of time after the one dual SIM device has reportedpower measurements.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein a selection isfurther based on least one of dual SIM device times of operation anddual SIM device location.
 16. A system for measuring networkinterference using dual subscriber identification module (SIM) devices,the system comprising: a plurality of Citizens Broadband Radio Service(CBRS) devices (CBSDs) forming a first cluster, wherein each CBSD andCBSD sector have a physical cell identity (PCIs) which are exchangedbetween neighboring CBSDs within the first cluster to yield unique PCIsfor each CBSD and CBSD sector; another plurality of Citizens BroadbandRadio Service (CBRS) devices (CBSDs) forming a second cluster, whereineach CBSD and CBSD sector have a physical cell identity (PCIs) which areexchanged between neighboring CBSDs within the second cluster to yieldunique PCIs for each CBSD and CBSD sector, and wherein the first clusterand the second cluster have non-overlapping CB SDs; a spectrum accesssystem (SAS) configured to grant unlicensed spectrum to the plurality ofCBSDs and the another plurality of CBSDs; at least one dual SIM deviceconfigured to connect via a first SIM to a CBSD in one of the firstcluster or the second cluster and report a number of detected PCIs usingthe first SIM; a selected dual SIM device configured to take powermeasurements, via a second SIM, of PCIs detected by the selected dualSIM device which are in one of the first cluster or the second clusterunassociated with the CBSD and are missing from a PCI table shared bythe CBSD, and wherein the selected dual SIM device is selected from theat least one dual SIM device by the SAS; and the SAS configured to makeinter-cluster interference decisions based on received powermeasurements from the selected dual SIM device using the second SIM. 17.The system of claim 16, wherein the CBSD is configured to share a PCItable with the selected dual SIM device.
 18. The system of claim 16,wherein the selected dual SIM device is a dual SIM device which detecteda greater number of PCIs than other dual SIM devices connected to a sameCBSD.
 19. The system of claim 16, wherein the selected dual SIM deviceis based on least one of dual SIM device which detected greatest numberof PCIs, dual SIM device times of operation, and dual SIM devicelocation.
 20. The system of claim 16, wherein each selected dual SIMdevice takes the power measurements for a defined period of time.